(Reuters) – France’s rugby World Cup quarter-final defeat to South Africa by a single point will be a lasting memory for the team, but coach Fabien Galthie believes they are in the process of building a stronger side for the 2027 edition.
The host nation, France, had a flawless record of four wins in the pool stage but saw their dream of a first title disappear when South Africa defeated them 29-28 in the knockout round.
Galthie stated that he wanted to give the team time to process the disappointment of their early exit before addressing the press.
He reflected on the team’s journey over the past four years, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to winning the World Cup. He acknowledged the impact of one-point defeat and the necessity for the team to undergo a period of introspection.
South Africa also clinched victories over England in the semi-finals and New Zealand in the final, both by a single point, to become the champions.
Galthie admitted that the team analyzed their quarter-final loss, and despite the outcome, he would stick to the same strategic approach if given a second chance.
Looking ahead to the 2027 World Cup in Australia, Galthie expressed optimism based on the team’s average age and collective experience, believing they will be stronger than the squad that narrowly lost to South Africa.
“When we put the team together after the (2019) World Cup in Japan, we had a squad with an average age of 24. Against South Africa, our average age was 27,” he said.
“In four years’ time, if the team stays the same, the average age will be 31. Depending on turnover, our collective experience could increase by two years and 20 caps.”
“From that point on, I think the team will be stronger than the one that lost by one point to South Africa.”
(Reporting by Rohith Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Toby Davis)
